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Ascend the tallest peak in The East from humble beginnings in Briar Bottom Group Campground.


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Map Key

5.7

Miles

9.2

KM

69%

Runnable

6,635' 2,022 m

High

3,011' 918 m

Low

3,624' 1,105 m

Up

0' 0 m

Down

12%

Avg Grade (7°)

43%

Max Grade (23°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views

Description

Leaving from Poplar, follow the trail as it makes a steady, switchbacking climb of over 3600 feet on a safe and well marked, albeit-technical, trail along multiple ridgelines to the summit. When on trail, be sure to follow blue trail blazes whatever you do. This should ensure you make it to the right place, but if in doubt, you can always use the Trail Run Project mobile app to keep you on track.

If you're looking to do an overnight, keep your eyes peeled for dispersed campsites and accompanying fire rings. Some of the best spots are located near mile three at a field and stream near the trail, as well as around mile four near Commissary Ridge and an adjoining field.

Upon reaching the top of the trail, you can head left to climb the Mt. Mitchell Summit Trail and experience fantastic views, or continue straight to reach the bathrooms and a museum near the parking lot.

Contacts

Shared By:

Matthew Meek

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 13 votes

#1140

Overall
  4.5 from 13 votes
5 Star
46%
4 Star
54%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#1,140

Overall
17 Views Last Month
2,368 Since Jul 24, 2017
Difficult Difficult

0%
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0%
8%
83%
8%

Photos

View from the Mt. Mitchell summit.
Mar 10, 2016 near Burnsville, NC
View towards Maple Bald
Jul 26, 2018 near Burnsville, NC
Sunrise from the summit of Mt. Mitchell looking north towards Mt. Craig and the Black Mountain Crest Trail
Sep 27, 2023 near Burnsville, NC
Summit view
Aug 19, 2018 near Burnsville, NC
Mt. Mitchell summit. Photo by Jake Blood.
Mar 25, 2016 near Burnsville, NC
Mountain views abound on this portion of the MST.
May 14, 2017 near Black M…, NC

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Check-Ins

Feb 23, 2020
Joe Gartrell
Awesome trek up to the peak from Black Mountain Campground! It was definitely more difficult than I expected. But, well worth the hike. 12mi — 4h 00m
Jul 4, 2018
Kimi deMent
Incredible to see the forest turn over as the elevation climbs. Very cool. Not many straightaways or downhills on way up for trail run/walkers.
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